Man extradited to NSW over historic assault offences

A man has been remanded in custody after being extradited from Queensland over alleged historic sexual and serious assault offences in the state’s Lake Macquarie region.

In April 2019, detectives from Lake Macquarie Police District established Strike Force Arapaima to re-examine the investigation into the unsolved disappearances and suspected murders of Robyn Hickie, Amanda Robinson and Gordana Kotevski.

As a result of extensive inquiries through this investigation, strike force detectives uncovered allegations of alleged historic sexual and serious assault offences against three other women dating back to the early 1980s.

Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives applied for an arrest warrant and travelled to Queensland yesterday (Wednesday 8 January 2020), where they arrested a 58-year-old man.

Detectives applied for and were granted his extradition to NSW today (Thursday 9 January 2020).

The man charged with 22 offences, including common assault, sexual assault without consent, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He later faced Tweed Heads Local Court, where he was formally refused bail to re-appear at Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday 4 March 2020.

Investigations under Strike Force Arapaima are ongoing.

Anyone with information which may assist strike force detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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